AUTOMATED TURNOUT INSPECTION

A method of inspecting a turnout of a track includes the steps of: capturing images of the components of the turnout; converting each image into a set of coordinates that traces the transverse cross-section of a rail profile; analyzing the rail profile to determine if the rail profile is a profile o...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors ZAREMBSKI ALLAN M, EUSTON TODD L, PALESE JOSEPH W
Format Patent
LanguageEnglish
Published 17.03.2011
Subjects
CALCULATING
COMPUTING
COUNTING
HANDLING RECORD CARRIERS
PHYSICS
PRESENTATION OF DATA
RECOGNITION OF DATA
RECORD CARRIERS
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Summary:A method of inspecting a turnout of a track includes the steps of: capturing images of the components of the turnout; converting each image into a set of coordinates that traces the transverse cross-section of a rail profile; analyzing the rail profile to determine if the rail profile is a profile of arunning rail portion or a component. Upon determination that the image represents a component, taking measurements of the rail profile and applying virtual gauges to the rail profile to check for potentially dangerous conditions of the component; and generating a summary of each cross-section of the rail profile of the component indicating problem areas. The method is used for identifying certain classes of switch or turnout rail conditions which can lead to derailments, and for enhancing the turnout inspection approach currently used. The use of this method as an integrated part of the rail profile monitoring program will reduce reliance on field measurements and will also allow more frequent, comprehensive, and convenient analysis of turnout condition.
Bibliography:Application Number: US20090557806